Identification of Students Difficulties in Understanding of Vector Concepts Using TUV
Baiq Rizkia Ayu Latifa (a), Endang Purwaningsih (b*)

a) Postgraduate, Universitas Negeri Malang
Jl. Semarang no. 5 Sumbersari, Kec. Lowokwaru, Kota Malang, Jawa Timur
b) Physics Education, Universitas Negeri Malang
Jl. Semarang no. 5 Sumbersari, Kec. Lowokwaru, Kota Malang, Jawa Timur

Abstract

This study is aimed to identify students difficulties in understanding vector concepts in physics. This research used an embedded approach research design with quantitative descriptive methods and the sampling used a random sampling technique. Total sample of 142 students from two different schools in Central Lombok district. Test of understanding of vector (TUV) used to test the understanding of students consist of 20 item questions, then followed by interview session with several students. The results of this study indicate that (i) students ability to understand vector concepts is still lacking and tends to be very lacking- (ii) the most difficult items for students are the unit vector graphic representation and the graphical represntation of vector multiplication. The concept of vector is still considered very difficult for students, especially if the item questions use graphical representations.

Keywords: vector concept, student difficulties, TUV

Topic: Physics Education